What level of education do I need to be eligible for a child life internship?
An applicant needs to have at least a bachelor's or master’s degree (or enrolled in coursework leading to a bachelor's or master’s degree) in child life or a related field (including but not limited to child development, family studies, human development, psychology, etc.). However, several courses are needed for acceptance to the internship program. Please review the internship requirements above for more specifics.
Do I have to be affiliated with a college/university to complete my internship?
We contract with colleges/universities for enrolled students completing their bachelor's or master's degrees. For individuals who have already earned their bachelor's or master's degree, the contract is between Yale New Haven Hospital and the individual learner. Non-affiliated students must purchase their own professional liability insurance.
Are there fees/expenses associated with the internship?
There is no fee to apply to the internship, which is an unpaid position. Students are required to have several textbooks in order to complete assignments throughout the semester. All other educational materials are provided and administrative costs are covered by the hospital. Interns are also responsible for their own housing and living expenses while in New Haven. The child life intern coordinators have housing resources that will be shared upon acceptance to the program.
What can best prepare me for the internship?
We require a minimum of 200 hours of practicum, volunteer, or work experience. At least 100 of these hours must be a child life practicum experience in a hospital setting directly under the supervision of a Certified Child Life Specialist. This exposure will provide the opportunity to observe the role of a child life specialist and help you solidify your own commitment to the field of child life.
What happens after my application is received?
Each application is reviewed by the Child Life Student Committee upon receipt. In keeping with the deadlines mentioned above, you will be notified if your application is going forward to the interview process.
What can I expect as a Child Life Intern?
Our goal during the 16-week (600-hour) internship is to provide a professional level, clinical experience that will prepare you to enter the field of child life. As an intern, you will work 40 hours a week following the same schedule as your clinical rotation supervisor(s). The hours are typically during the daytime, although they may vary with clinical rotation supervisor schedules as well as special programming that might occur during the evening. In this way, you will acquire the most realistic and consistent working experience to prepare you to be a child life specialist.